Introduction
As a parent or caregiver, you know all too well how quickly stomach bugs can spread through a household. Young children are especially prone to picking up these viruses and passing them along to everyone else. The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent catching a stomach bug from a child. In this article, we’ll explore five simple ways you can protect yourself and your family from these pesky viruses.
Wash Hands Frequently
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of stomach bugs is by washing your hands frequently. This is especially important after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or before preparing food. Encouraging children to wash their hands frequently can be a challenge, but there are a few tricks you can try:
- Use a fun, colorful soap dispenser
- Sing a silly hand-washing song while they scrub
- Offer a small reward or prize for good hand hygiene
Properly Handle and Prepare Food
Stomach bugs can be spread through contaminated food, so it’s important to teach children how to properly handle and prepare food. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before eating or cooking
- Cook meat, poultry, and eggs thoroughly to kill any bacteria
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods
Sanitize Shared Surfaces
Shared surfaces, like door handles, faucets, and countertops, can harbor bacteria and viruses that cause stomach bugs. To keep these surfaces clean and sanitized:
- Wipe down surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner regularly
- Keep a supply of disinfectant wipes handy for quick clean-ups
- Teach children to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing
Practice Social Distancing
Stomach bugs can easily spread from person to person, so it’s important to practice social distancing when someone in your household is sick. Here are a few tips for encouraging children to maintain a safe distance:
- Explain the importance of staying away from people who are sick
- Offer to play a game or read a book with your child instead of hugging or holding them
- Encourage older children to be aware of their surroundings and avoid crowded areas
Stay Hydrated
When a child does come down with a stomach bug, it’s important to keep them hydrated to prevent dehydration. Here are a few suggestions for offering fluids:
- Offer small sips of water or an electrolyte drink throughout the day
- Try a popsicle or ice chips if your child is having trouble keeping fluids down
- Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can make dehydration worse
Conclusion
Stomach bugs are no fun for anyone, but there are steps you can take to prevent catching them from your child. By washing your hands frequently, properly handling and preparing food, sanitizing shared surfaces, practicing social distancing, and staying hydrated, you can minimize the risk of illness for your whole family.
Remember to encourage your children to adopt these good habits as well, and together you can help stop the spread of stomach bugs in your household.
